Makeworth Coffee Roasters

Makeworth Coffee Roasters, located in downtown Bellingham, Washington, was established in May 2019. Originally launched under the name "Makeworth Market," the business began as a community-focused space that featured a beer parlor, event programming, and a curated mercantile display. Over time, and particularly influenced by the operational shifts necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company transitioned its primary focus toward specialty coffee roasting and hospitality, eventually bringing its sourcing and roasting operations in-house.

The company is led by co-owner and head roaster Tim Shenkin. From its inception, the operation has been defined by a "people-first" philosophy, aiming to serve as a gathering place for the local community while supporting other small businesses through a dedicated wholesale and consulting program. This program provides partners with coffee, equipment access, and staff training, reflecting the company's broader mission to foster connection through coffee.

Makeworth’s sourcing and roasting philosophy is characterized by an adventurous approach to coffee profiles. While the company maintains a catalog that includes staples like Brazil and Kenya, it is notably recognized for its focus on Colombian coffees. The roastery frequently highlights innovative processing methods, including anaerobic natural, co-fermentation, and cultured fermentation techniques. These methods are intended to produce cup profiles that balance bright, fruit-forward acidity—often described as berry or stone-fruit notes—with a traditional cocoa and nut foundation.

Beyond its core coffee offerings, the company maintains a commitment to transparency and intentionality in its supply chain. This includes a focus on "people-forward" sourcing, where the company seeks to partner with producers whose work emphasizes resilience and empowerment. Their catalog also includes decaffeinated options, such as ethyl-acetate processed beans, to ensure a comprehensive range of offerings for their customers.

The physical cafe, situated in a historic building in Bellingham, serves as the primary hub for the brand. The space is designed to reflect the company's emphasis on hospitality, featuring a modern aesthetic that complements the building's original wooden floors and natural light. The cafe is equipped with high-end machinery, including La Marzocco espresso equipment, to support their craft-focused service model.

Makeworth’s industry presence has grown steadily since its founding. The company has been recognized by industry media, including being named a finalist for the 2026 Sprudge Notable Roaster of the Year and a semi-finalist for the 2025 Sprudge Packaging Design of the Year. These accolades, alongside their role as a community fixture in Bellingham, underscore their position as a significant contributor to the Pacific Northwest specialty coffee scene.